"This project certainly aims to support the development of local tourism."
Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA News) - The Ministry of Transportation has planned to build three floating docks under an initiative called "Tiga Gili" (three small islands), namely Gili Trawangan, Meno, and Gili Air, as part of efforts to support the tourism sector in North Lombok district.

"The construction of these floating docks is intended to facilitate small boats carrying tourists from the Bali Benoa harbour to the "Tiga Gili" attractions," the head of Transportation, Communication and Information department of West Nusa Tenggara, Ridwan Syah said here on Thursday.

"Besides, floating docks are safer and environment-friendly since people don`t have to anchor their boats which can damage the coral reefs," he added.

According to Syah, the construction of the floating docks, which will cost around Rp20 billion to the state budget, will be implemented in 2013.

He also said that the docks construction is part of support from the central government to the North Lombok government to create infrastructure for the tourism sector in the district.

"The port, built on Bangsal beach in Pemenang, will later be part of the three floating docks at `Tiga Gili`. Moreover, the technical usage will be set so that the docks could be used as a source of local revenue," Syah explained.

He added that the floating docks construction at "Tiga Gili" is included in the work plan and budget allocation of the Transportation Ministry.

"The ministry will also build twelve similar docks along other coastal areas in Indonesia. This project certainly aims to support the development of local tourism," Syah stated.

He further said that the government has also conducted a design investigation survey to ensure the construction of a durable floating dock that can accommodate yachts and speed boats.

"The floating docks will be constructed using modern technology and strong materials, such as wood, metal and concrete, while the bridge will be elastic, strong and able to adjust tides elevation," he explained.

Syah expressed optimism that the floating docks would increase the number of tourists visiting `Tiga Gili`, especially those traveling by boats from Benoa port and other ports in Bali.

"With sophisticated construction of the docks, we will ensure passenger comfort. A similar concept has been used by some developed countries, such as Singapore and Japan," he said.
(U.Y012/INE/KR-BSR/F001)

Editor: Priyambodo RH
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